Epoxidharzbeschichtete Bewehrung - Neue Erkenntnisse nach zwei Jahrzehnten Praxiserfahrung

Epoxy-coated reinforcement - New findings after two decades of practical experience

Epoxy-coated reinforcement (ECR) as a measure against chloride-induced corrosion of steel in concrete has until now particularly in North America been used in considerable amounts. Nevertheless, in literature the mechanism of action and the potential corrosion protection effect of ECR are controversially discussed. The lack of information concerning the long-term behavior of ECR in concrete is one of the main reasons for the low level of application of ECR in Germany or Europe in general. In 1989 and 1991, two road bridges were constructed with ECR as pilot projects in both Switzerland and Germany. This paper presents results from condition assessments of the two bridges after more than two decades of service life. The results show that the epoxy coating is still in a good and functional condition after more than 20 years in concrete. In addition, possible higher critical chloride contents at small defects of ECR (< 50 mm²) have been verified in laboratory tests for the first time. The possible resulting service life prolongation is assessed by first service life calculations.